Dog Breed Characteristics - Medium-Sized Dogs

Not too sure which type of dog to buy? This is part 2 of 3 articles that addresses the different needs and characteristics of some of the popular dogs.

Bulldog

This is a commonly misunderstood dog. Although its name and appearance (and those cartoons that depict fierce bulldogs) suggest that it is not-so-friendly, it is generally friendly and docile. Due to this nature, they get along well with children and other dogs. They love attention and are really loyal creatures. They can also be easily trained. They need daily exercise and overweight bulldogs can lead to health problems related to the heart and lungs. Interestingly, it was used in the 1600s for bullbaiting, but has since lost its aggressiveness after the sport was outlawed.

Dalmatian

This is probably one of the most filmed breed (think 101 and you get what I mean) and you cannot miss it with its trademark white coat with black spots. It is believed to be one of the oldest breed around and they are generally free from illness. They usually get sick with old age. Note that Dalmatians are dogs with lots of energy and they require frequent exercise. You should not buy a Dalmatian if you do not have the time to take care of it.

Siberian Husky

Originated from Siberia, it has a thick-furry coat and tail. It looks very much like its ancestor, the wolf. They are known to howl rather than bark. Because of their intuitive hunting nature, they make good hunting dogs. They are also stubborn creatures and proper obedience training is needed. Siberian Huskies are very intelligent and are therefore popular with dog shows. They are also used in sled dog racing because of their high level of fitness.

Australian Shepherd

It was not originated from Australia as its name suggests, but was brought up on ranches in the United States. It is a popular herding dog, but has slowly made its way into homes due to its obedience and eagerness to please its owners. It is usually a sweet and affectionate dog which is faithful to its owners and is great with children. There are, noticeably, two distinct types of personalities. One is an energetic dog that requires frequent exercise and enjoys doing tricks, while the other enjoys being a couch potato. Due to their herding nature, they bark warnings when they notice anything unusual. Intelligent and good with tricks, they make good pets.

Poodle

They are considered one of the most intelligent breeds of dog. They can be easily recognised with very short hair around the body, except for the head, legs and tail (Google for the pictures). Owners can choose to groom their own poodles in any way they like, but I think they look funny though. Poodles are known to be active. They can get bored easily and have been known to create bad mischief. In general, they are eager to please and are easy to train. They make good pets for those families with children.

Are you having problems training your dog? Discover how you can quickly and easily train a dog.

How to Find the Best Domestic Dog Breed For Your Personality Type

If you want to bring a dog into your family you may be wondering what type of domestic dog breed is best suited for your personality. After all owning any animal, especially a dog is a long term commitment. You want to be sure that you choose the right breed and specific dog for your lifestyle, family and personality. Finding the right dog for your personality type is easier than you might think. Read the personality descriptions in this article to find the right dog breed for your demeanor.

Every human being has a truly unique personality. However, most people display certain personality traits more often. Choose a dog based on your most dominate personality traits.

TYPE A: Outgoing and Funny

People who have a type A personality are very happy the majority of the time because they look at the bright side of life. These people love to be apart of something bigger than themselves, and they strive to make other people laugh. Type A personalities have a happy go lucky innocent approach in life. They are very successful people who love to spend time with family and friends. People who are outgoing and fun to be around should opt for playful energetic dogs. Top domestic dog breeds for this personality type are: Labs, Golden Retrievers, Pomeranians, Yorkshire terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, Shih Tzu, Poodles, Alaskan malamute, German shepherd, and Collies.

TYPE B: Creative and Artistic

People who have type B personalities have a great deal of talent. They are very creative, crafty and they can be social, yet quiet when they need their space. They love to find new friends traveling all over the world. These people tend to be very caring, and emotional individuals. They treasure their close relationships. Creative people do well with all kinds of different breeds because these people are so versatile. Top dog breeds for this personality type are: Pugs, German Sheperd, Alaskan Husky, Lab, Golden Retriever, Saint Bernard, Collie, Shetland sheepdog, Great Dane, Greyhound, Dalmatians, Chihuahua, and Smooth Fox Terrier.

TYPE C: Sensitive, Loving and Emotional

People with type C personalities are very loving, and emotional. They strive to treat everyone fairly and avoid fighting. Type C personalities have strong marriages because they work hard to keep everyone together. They forgive easily although they can be naïve and too giving at times. Sensitive people do very well with affectionate playful dogs. Top dog breeds for this personality type are: Labs, Golden Retrievers, Border collie, Blue Heeler, Petit Basset Griffon Vendee, Pug, English Setter, and Poodles.

TYPE D: Successful, Aggressive, Charming

People who have this personality type can be very successful because they are either aggressive or assertive. They put plans into action rather than dreaming or thinking about what they want to do. Type D personalities tend to be charming over-achievers. They also focus on their appearance and sex appeal a lot. They love having a good time and getting attention from the opposite sex. Type D personalities do very well with athletic and unique dog breeds. Top domestic dog breeds for this personality type are: Bloodhound, Plott Hound, German shepherd, Alaskan malamute, Akita, Golden Retrievers, Australian Cattle Dog, Beagle, Border Collie, Giant Schnauzer, Great Dane, Trottweiler, Bull Dogs, and Brussels Griffon.

Choosing a Dog Breed For Your Family

Every household is unique, and your new canine addition will be too. It's too easy to visit the RSPCA and fall in love, they're all so adorable! But before you leave your house, it's important to consider what kind of breed would suit your household best. How much time do you have for exercising your dog; how big is your back yard or do you live in an apartment; how much cuddling time will you have for your new friend?

My best advice - do your homework. Believe me, it will be far from boring! It's simply amazing the range of different breeds that are out there. If you abide by this first rule, you're going to meet a great new friend who's everything you wanted - and whose needs are not impossible for you to meet.

Now the fun begins, draw up six columns; time, space, activity level and temperament, health, expenses, family considerations (some of these will overlap):

Time: How much time do you have for your new pal? And you'll definitely need some - every day. Each breed requires a different amount of exercise, socialising, play and grooming. For some breeds it's a must to get down to the dog park each evening. Others love a fetching session twice a day. An Afghan hound's charming coat requires regular bathing and brushing, with techniques suited to its hair - period. And well, puppies need more...of everything! Put aside much more time and consideration in those first few months and get as much training and quality time in. Make sure you bring home a pal for whom you have the time to keep in optimum condition.

Space: Where do you live? Where will your dog live, dawn 'til dusk? Will he spend mornings and evenings inside? Will you be home or out and about with your dog most of the day? Your buddy will be sharing space with you and your family; some are better suited to being around children than others will share more in common with older folks. If you don't have a big yard, getting an active dog who requires lots of space can be a big mistake. A placid and sweet Newfoundland, though huge, would be better suited to taking up the whole rug in your apartment than a little "Speedy Gonzales" Jack Russell. Also, it's good to take some time to consider if you'll have visiting animals and what arrangements you'll need then.

Activity level & temperament of breed: Can you handle an active, determined breed or do you need a mellow pet? A gorgeous Malamute may be strong minded and a challenge to train while a Dalmatian may not be able to handle being left at home alone. A Chihuahua is likely to need heaps of attention to keep him feeling safe and calm, so if you don't have the time and devotion, a different breed may be a better match. What characteristics are you looking for in your canine companion?

Health of Breed: Some breeds may be prone to hereditary diseases or conditions. This is a much-needed consideration for your life together, as you will need to keep an eye out for symptoms of diseases and conditions that your breed is prone to. You need to be careful to check the skin of Bulldogs regularly, Collies need you to check their eyes, Mastiffs their eyelids (that they aren't rolling in), large or giant breeds in general, hip dysplasia. The list goes on so make sure you've got all the info you need to properly check the health of your new pal.

Expenses: Ahem... First up - can you afford the dog? Dogs deserve and require quality food and regular veterinarian care. Pet Health insurance can be a great option for responsible pet owners. I have policies for all my animals and it has sure shown its worth! But seriously, you can only add to your family if your budget shows you can afford it.

Chat to your local vet about the breed you're thinking of adopting and you'll be able to figure out expenses around diet, gear (a carrier, portable water bowl, etc.), regular amenities (flea and tick prevention, special shampoos) and the shots and possible problems your dog could get into (and their costs!). Estimate generously so you won't be caught out.

Family considerations: What sort of dog suits your family? Puppy or adult? Active or relaxed? Good with young children? Playful? Do you have other animals living with you?

How much shedding will work for you? Different breeds shed different amounts. You may prefer a "hairless" dog or you may enjoy really enjoy brushing your dog as a special activity that brings you closer together. Barking. Some breeds tend to vocalize quite a lot while other breeds such as the Basenji don't bark... while they do yodel. Taking the time to ensure that your new pal will check all your boxes can really pay off.

How to Select the Best Dog Breed For You

Dog as the mans best friend, many people have a tendency to get a dog to accompany them when they are back from work or when they felt lonely. Dog shows relentless love and will always by your side. They are cute and cuddle when they are young, make you refresh during the day you go to work and excited to go home everyday even before the clock ticks five.

However, dogs are not like toys which you can switch on and off when you need or don't need them. They are animals like human have feelings. You need them as much as they need you. For family who decided to have a dog at your home, there is much to consider about.

Below are some guidelines:

1) Appearance and Size

Decide on what kind of appearance of dog do you like. Cute type like Bichon Frise? Cool style like Bulldog? Or strong look like Rottweiler?

Besides, the size of the dog should be considered as well. For people with small kids, it is not recommend to have dog in big size because it may hurt the child while playing with children unintentionally.

2) Temperament

Different dog breed has very different of temperament. Getting of a pure dog breed is good because it is easier to predict its temperament.

Some dog breeds are very intelligent but they may not be a good guard dog. Some small dogs are cute looking but difficult to house break. Some of the dogs are calm in emotions while some are not. Some dog breeds bark a lot and some just bark to intruders or don't bark at all.

If there are small children in the house, certain dog breeds may not recommended because they may either too intense when playing or higher tendency to get jealous if they do not received the same amount or more of care than the kids.

3) Want a companion dog, guard dog, watch dog, show dog or etc?

The purpose of having a dog may be differs to people. If you want a dog which can become a good companion with your elder family members, Dachshund might be a good choice for you. If you are seldom at home and need a dog which can take care of your house, you can select dog which is more independent and having watchdog or guard dog instinct, for example a Rottweiler . If you prefer dogs which are joyful and fun to be with, a Dalmatian is fine. If you are an active person, you can select sporting type dog such as a Golden Retriever, which can accompany you to participate in many outdoor activities.

4) Health Conditions of the dog

Different type of dog breed prone to different type of diseases. By getting a pure dog breed, you can know the diseases that the dog prone to.

For example, Bulldog is prone to respiratory/ breathing problem. Some dog breeds are prone to Atopic Dermatitis Skin disease such as Bull terrier, Boston Terrier and Dalmatians.

Besides the 4 guard lines above, there are other considerations when selecting a dog breed, such as Living Conditions, Life Expectancy, Gender of the Dog, Grooming and etc.

Thus selecting and understanding each dog breed and dog as a whole is very important. In a whole, dogs are pack animals, they live in pack order, we as the owner must always exert ourselves as the leader of the pack so as every members in the family. This is not to be cruel to the animal, it is crucial to live in harmony among each other; they will also feel happy to have a responsible leader to lead them. Dog are not like humans that fight for the top rank because of personal ego or status. Unless you would like to live in the dog world, human as the higher rank in the pack is very vital.

Dalmatian - Dog Breed

Dalmatian is a dog breed having athletic capabilities. It is quite a dependable dog. It is known for its high-spirited nature and playfulness as well as its dignified manners.

Though a Dalmatian possesses independent nature but if the owner guides his dog rightly then it will obey whatever it is taught. However, if human leadership is lacking in training then you will find it impossible to handle.

It is advised to involve this dog in challenging activities like obstacle course etc because it has an athletic and vigorous nature with good endurance level so it needs to vent out its excessive energy. You can take your dog regularly for jogging or biking and even for hiking. If you cannot do it more often then allow it to play and jump around in a safe and enclosed place.

Do not leave it alone too much as it will lead to hyperactivity and destructive behavior in it.

Usually a Dalmatian shows a very good attitude towards strangers. However if it shows any signs of aggression, then you need to socialize them a lot.

If you are looking for a polite dog which likes to interact with others and has high energy levels, then Dalmatian is a good choice as a pet for you. But be extra careful as this dog tends to show anxiety. Moreover it requires vigorous physical activity on a daily basis to vent off its high energy levels. You also need to spend sufficient time with it otherwise it will show aggression.

Dalmatian is not recommended for allergy sufferers as this dog sheds constantly.

Fun Facts About The Paisley Breed Of Dalmatian

During the past century, there has always been a strong bond existent between British dog fanciers and the Dalmatian. It is said that these dogs have been known there for the past 200 years, and there has even been exploration of a theory that they are actually partially descended from the early English hunting hounds, the Talbot in particular, so similar are they to these dogs in type, character, and hunting ability.

Dave and Sue MacMillan who are located at St. Paul, Minnesota own Paisley Dalmatians. When Paisley Preterit completed his finals in March of 1985, he became the 50th conformation winner owned or bred at Paisley. And through that same month, Paisley's QindaBritt became the 30th compliance Dalmatian to have earned a C.D. degree.

Quite possibly a century or two ago there was some Talbot blood infused into the European dogs who, by their striking appearance, caught the eyes of travelers from Great Britain, then gained their admiration by their intelligence, along with their strong guard dog tendencies, and thus were brought back to Britain with the tourists. There seems no disputing the fact that the Dalmatian has his roots in very ancient times, and that the evolutions in the breed have been numerous.

The Dalmatian is a medium-sized dog, averaging 22" to 24" tall at the shoulder and weighing approximately 50 - 65 pounds. He is most noted for his distinctively spotted coat, which occurs in two colors, black or a chocolate brown, properly termed as "liver". Either color is equally correct and, therefore, simply becomes a matter of personal preference.

Originally bred as a coach dog, he is an active dog, capable of great endurance. His heritage also includes a protectiveness that extends to all of his possessions, including his family. The Dalmatian is an affectionate dog with a boisterous personality although this behavior is typically reserved for "his" people. With strangers, he presents a dignified and restrained manner until you have passed his inspection and been accepted into his fold. Some Dalmatians "smile" by baring their front teeth. The Dalmatian is easily known by its striking black-spotted pattern design. However, the origin of this interesting color pattern is still unknown.

Its name however, stems from Dalmatian, which is a region located in western Yugoslavia. This dog breed was recognized by the AKC back in the year 1888 and has remained popular ever since.

More Info

To learn more about the Paisley breed of Dalmations, there are many places you can turn online. Begin by keying in search terms like, "Paisley breed" and "paisley dalmations" into your favorate search engines like MSN, DogPile, Google or Yahoo. Check out popular websites, blogs, articles, videos and other links that appear in their listings.

You can also head to sites with all types of affordable products from books to CD / DVDs and more like Barnes and Noble, Amazon and the world's largest auction house online, eBay. Again, search for your key phrases there and then site back and relax while their individual engines bring up plenty of listings for you to review.

Fun Facts About The Dalmatia Breed of Dalmatian

Dalmatians were well known as a carriage dog and so they were also known as Spotted Coach-dogs. Evidence shows that possibly the breed existed centuries before it was named in the 18th century. There is 4000-year-old Greek art showing dogs that look much like modern Dalmatians. The Dalmatian dog breed's popularity surged with the 1956 novel The Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith, and also the Disney film based on the book.
Their size allowed them to fit under the rear axle of the coach, where they often ran. Their stamina allowed them to keep up with the horses and guard dog tendencies allowed the owners to leave the coach without worrying about their possessions. It was often said that a coach was better left in the care of the dogs than the coachman, who could easily be distracted by highway robbers.
The Dalmatian is most famous for being the firehouse dog. This probably started in London where they were first acquired as "ratters", to kill vermin in London's stables and firehouses. Soon they were running alongside the fire engine. To this day, many firehouses in Great Britain and the USA have a Dalmatian, although now, they are more likely to been seen riding on the fire truck instead of along side it.
The breed's first appearance in a dog show was in Great Britain in 1860. The first American shows appearance was in 1926, when the Dalmatian Club of American held its first National Specialty Show.
The exact time and location of the dog's origin are unknown. However, because Dalmatians appear in an Italian wall painting dated about 1360 A.D. and because these spotted dogs were named after Dalmatia, an Adriatic coastal region, one may

assume that they originated somewhere in this area. But, it wasn't until 1780 when the name "Dalmatian" was used in the English language.

English: Dalmatian Italiano: Dalmata (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

In the 1700's, Dalmatians were used to protect horses that pulled English stagecoaches. Typically two Dalmatians would run next to the horses as they pulled the coach. When other dogs tried to run out and scare the horses, the Dalmatian team would chase them away. Over the years, Dalmatians formed a close bond with horses. During this time, horse theft was very common. Because of the potential for theft, stagecoach drivers would typically sleeping a hammock strung between two stalls where they would watch for thieves. However, because of the bond between the Dalmatians and the horses, the driver could sleep in a hotel or house if he owned a Dalmatian.
The Dalmatians would sleep with the horses and guard against horse theft. It is during the era of horse drawn fire apparatus that the Dalmatian becomes forever tied to the Fire Service. These fire house horses were required to spend hours at a time at a fire scene, or hours inside the fire house waiting for a call, and despite many misbelieves, these fire house horses were not broken down old hags, but fine spirited horses.

Dalmatians - A Guide to the Breed

The Dalmatian is an ancient breed whose heritage is hotly disputed, it is thought by many to date back to 2000BC and to have come through the centuries relatively unchanged. Paintings of Dalmatians running alongside chariots have been unearthed in Egyptian tombs as well as in the remains of ancient Greece and Rome. Some believe that the breed originates from Dalmatia, Croatia but there is little evidence to prove this. Over the years Dalmatians have been used for a wide variety of jobs including dogs of war, border patrols, sheep herders, cart pullers, circus performers and coaching dogs. The Dalmatian breed has always been closely associated and retained a strong affinity with horses. They became popular with aristocracy after the breeds' introduction to Britain in the 18th century and often ran along side ornate carriages. Their strong bodied athletic build and limitless energy and stamina reflect these years as a coach dog.

Dalmatians were also adopted by fire departments in the 1800's and were trained to run through the streets clearing the way and guiding the horse drawn water wagons and fire fighters to the fires. They were sometimes also used as rescue dogs to locate victims in burning structures. Dalmatians make good watchdogs and were employed by fire brigades to guard there firehouse and equipment. As the fire engines were often the targets of thieves. As a result, many modern day fire fighters in the US have Dalmatians as pets and they are commonly known as firehouse dogs.

To this day the Dalmatian retains its guarding instinct but while they are friendly and loyal to those they trust, they are often aloof with strangers and other dogs. The breed also has a strong hunting instinct which makes it an excellent exterminator of rats and vermin, in the past they were used as bird dogs, trail hounds and retrievers as well as in packs for stag and boar hunting.

The Dalmatian breed had a massive surge in popularity as a result of the 1956 novel 'The hundred and one Dalmatians' by Dodie Smith and later due to the Disney and live-action films that followed. But the breed suffered when unscrupulous breeders began breeding high numbers without ensuring the health, quality and temperament of the dog.

Although Dalmatians are relatively easy to train as they have a willing nature and an eagerness to please, many well-meaning owners purchased Dalmatians without learning about the responsibilities and commitment required. Since the dogs were originally bred to run with horses they have high levels of energy and stamina and need frequent exercise. As many owners found themselves unable to provide the adequate care many Dalmatians were abandoned and left with animals shelters. This left the breed with a bad reputation of being difficult to manage.

Most health problems in Dalmatians are as a result of old age and they can live for up to 15 or 16 years. Although the one common problem found with the breed is deafness, this occurs in several dog types that have light pigmentation including bull terriers, poodles, boxers and boarder collies. Puppies can be tested after five weeks to see if this defect is present and reputable breeders test their dogs prior to breeding. Research shows that Dalmatians with larger patches of colour at birth, and brown eyes rather than blue, generally have less hearing defects.

One other health issue with the breed is Kidney and bladder stones which occur due to the lack of an enzyme called uricase which is not present in the Dalmatians gene pool at all. Males over 10 years old are prone to kidney stones and should take preventative medication. Owners should be careful to limit the intake of purine which is present in organ meats and animal by-products.

In America the Dalmatian is associated with Budweiser beer and 'Busch Gardens' theme parks as the famous Anheuser-Busch horse drawn beer wagon is always accompanied by a Dalmatian carriage dog. The brewer maintains several touring teams and claims that Dalmatians were historically used by brewers to guard the wagons while the drivers made their deliveries.

A Short History of the Popular Dog Breed - Dalmatians

First references to Dalmatians as a breed of dogs are found in history since mid 18th century. However, the breed was well known throughout the world long before the 18th century. Spotted dogs of the same size and type have been found in paintings, engravings, models and early writings. These dogs were commonly found in Africa, Asia and Europe. These dogs probably accompanied ancient gypsies, which can explain their vast spread and popularity. The term Dalmatians is derived from the place of origin of the dogs, a region known as Dalmatia. Dalmatia is located in the Adriatic region in Western Yugoslavia.

Although a favorite pet of man since ancient times, Dalmatians became truly famous after the elite class of Great Britain brought them home. The upper class of the British society used to tour Europe in the 18th century. They often brought back these spotted dogs. The breed attracted attention of the masses due to its striking looks. The English aristocracy used the Dalmatians to accompany their horse drawn carriages. They were placed below the rear axle of the coach. They also trotted below the pole separate the two horses. Many a times, they led the procession by trotting ahead the horse up front. Such impressive sights and feats drew the attention of the public and made the breed even more popular.

Another reason why Dalmatians are very popular is that they are firehouse dogs. Dalmatians were used in 18th century England as ratters. They were experts in locating and killing the rats that infested the stables and firehouses of London. The Dalmatians loved horses and fire engines and their role expanded to include racing along with or ahead of the fire engines when the alarm was sounded. The dogs became associated with fire engines and firemen. Even today, you can find many Dalmatians ride on fire trucks. They are still considered as mascots of firemen and are found in the firehouses in Great Britain, United States and other countries as well.

Dalmatians captured the hearts of the public by performing their duties with diligence and dedication during the war times. Dalmatians were preferred for sentinel duty during the wars. They also served as draft dogs and dogs for the shepherds.

Dalmatians are very commonly used in circus shows. Dalmatians are intelligent animals and have the aptitude for learning tricks. Their showy appearance also makes them very popular. They are used as assistants for the clowns. Needless to say, they are a hit with children.

Some tips for feeding your adult Dalmatian dog

Given below are some tips and guidelines related to the diet of adult Dalmatians. These tips and guidelines are the result of various researches conducted over the years.

One should not feed any organ meat such as liver, sweetbreads, brains, kidneys or any such organ in any form to the adult Dalmatian. Organ meat should not be given raw or cooked or as an ingredient in any food or snack.

One should not feed any game meat such as venison or elk meat in any form.